The Committee of 100, a local organization of 240 business leaders, announced today its endorsement of Roger Jones (D) for re-election to the Madison County Commission District 1, and Shere Rucker (R) for Madison County Board of Education District 5. Both candidates will be on the November 8 ballot.

“We believe Jones and Rucker are visionary, experienced leaders and independent thinkers who will strengthen Madison County’s position for economic growth and high quality public education, “ said John Allen, chair of BizPac, the Committee’s political action arm.

Jones has served District 1 as a Commissioner for 16 years and received BizPac’s support every time. He previously served one term on the Madison County Board of Education and has been a vocal and active supporter of county schools as a Commissioner. “He was one of the first Commissioners to support TIFs to stimulate retail development, has worked to improve cooperation with city and state government leaders, and has run District 1 programs with financial integrity,” said Allen.

According to Allen, BizPac believes Rucker’s CPA training, experience as an accounting manager for ADTRAN, and volunteer service in the school system will be valuable assets in her serving on the Madison County Board of Education. “Shere has a strong commitment to rebuilding trust with the community by expanding two-way communication and involving constituents in setting a vision for the county school system,” said Allen.

Jones faces Republican Tim McNeese on the November 8 ballot, the candidate he defeated in 2012. His district includes New Market, Hazel Green, Chapman, Five Points, downtown Huntsville and Monte Sano. Rucker is running against Corrie Wikoff, a Democrat, for an open seat now held by Jeff Anderson in the Monrovia area.

Since 1996, BizPac has contributed money and support to candidates for local offices, including Huntsville Mayor and City Council, Madison Mayor and City Council, Huntsville Board of Education, the Madison County Commission, and Madison County Schools Superintendent and Madison County Board of Education.

As part of its mission to encourage civic engagement in local politics, the Committee of 100 also sponsored Rock the Vote 2016 on February 9th for young professionals. This event attracted a large crowd of more than 700 attendees including 45 candidates. About 200 young professionals registered to vote and more than 100 updated voter information at various Rock the Vote events that week.

The Committee of 100’s mission is to serve as a catalyst in stimulating Huntsville area economic development by working with community partners to develop cooperative solutions. BizPac identifies, develops and encourages visionary, business-oriented candidates with a commitment to cooperative government to run for local public office, and supports them as they serve the community.